In 2012, we had a joint birthday party for our older children. It was just a simple tea party, the birthday children being allowed two friends each. We told them we could not afford a bigger party that year. It wasn't until they opened their 'cards', that they found what we planned. Mick, Beth and George would be going on the "Tasmania Wilderness Expedition", a camping holiday for fathers and children.
"What about Steve?" asked Beth.
"Can I tell them now, Mummy?"
"You mean to say - you knew about Tasmania!" cried Mike.
"Not exactly. Mummy told me we were going to a holiday camp - Me and her that is. She said you and Daddy were doing something else."
Beth then asked if I was coming with them, and said it was sexist not to allow mums. I had thought so too, until Karen pointed out it would be the mums, who would get the 'housework'. If any of the girls had 'women's problems' they could talk to one of the nurses.
"Don't worry about your mother," said Karen. "She will be working on a project."
What project?
"The London Project," Karen continued.
Later, when I checked my mobile, Karen had sent me a message.
I saw J H-S. Another message followed, with his email and phone number.